Backed by new investors, AnimaWings is preparing for an ambitious expansion across the European aviation market. This follows the Romanian carrier’s announcement to expand its fleet and strengthen its presence across Eastern Europe.
New Investors Back Expansion
Three institutional investors have acquired a combined 50% stake in AnimaWings, according to the airline. The portfolio includes funds from Europe, with two based in Romania and one from Slovakia. As the deal is awaiting regulatory approval, the financial terms are yet to be publicly announced.
The new shareholders include BT Asset Management SAI, part of Banca Transilvania Financial Group, Slovakia-based Winners Holding Investments and Bucharest-listed EVERGENT Investments. Founders Marius and Cristian Pandel will remain shareholders, with Marius Pandel continuing as chief executive officer.
“This moment represents much more than a financial transaction – it confirms that the project we have built has substance, direction and long-term potential,” Pandel said. “We have chosen to grow alongside investors who understand that AnimaWings is not just an airline, but a project of national significance.”
A220 Fleet Drives Strategy
Initially, AnimaWings started as a joint venture between Aegean Airlines and the Memento Group, a Romanian-owned travel company based in the Netherlands. Aegean originally held a 25% stake before increasing its share to 51% in 2021, although the Greek carrier later exited the company entirely in 2023.
The airline currently operates a fleet of five Airbus A220-300 aircraft and two Airbus A320-200 jets. By 2027, AnimaWings hopes to operate 18 aircraft as it continues investing heavily in the Airbus A220.
The expansion comes as Romania’s national carrier, TAROM, continues restructuring efforts under an EU-approved recovery plan that caps its fleet at 14 aircraft. This has created an opening for competitors seeking a larger share of the regional market.
Do you think AnimaWings can become a major player in Eastern Europe’s aviation market? Share your thoughts in the comments.
